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Nick Baker named Lewis-Palmer athletic director shortly before school year

He was in Miami juggling a destination wedding combined with a destination honeymoon. Then his phone rang. He was told he was the new Lewis-Palmer athletic director.

His mind started racing immediately.

"For a second there on Tuesday (July 16), I was thinking I had to get starting on work," Baker said. "But I realized I really couldn't. I had to finish what I started down there."

Baker's first day on the job was Wednesday. He spent most of the time trying to get settled into his new office with less than three weeks to the first official high school games tee off.

"I understand the amount of stuff I have to do is pretty overwhelming," Baker said. "But being a coach I know the process to get things going. I know where to start. So it's not like it's something I'm not aware of. There are a lot of similarities as far as CHSAA is concerned."

Baker has coached the Lewis-Palmer wrestling team the past six seasons and plans to be involved with the program this winter. He takes over the athletic director position from Russ McKinstry.

Lewis-Palmer principal Sandi Brandl said Baker's appreciation and use of technology aided in him getting the job. Baker is looking to use technology to help get the word out for his athletic programs.

"As far as the technological piece, it's more communicating with the public with the great things we do," Baker said.

"That's easily done through Facebook and your websites, talking with the media, and letting people know what our coaches do and how good they are. Usually a school is overshadowed by maybe one sport; like L-P you think basketball. But we still have a football team that does great things, our volleyball team is top-notch as well.

"It's a pretty rare opportunity to get this type of a position. I'm definitely excited. Hopefully I can help our athletics continue on the great path they're on."